Overview
- The multi-day confirmation of charges hearing is scheduled for Feb 23–27 to test if evidence warrants moving to trial, with a decision due within 60 days.
- Prosecutors asked the chamber to reject Rodrigo Duterte’s bid to waive his appearance, arguing his stated reasons do not justify holding the session without him.
- ICC judges have already found Duterte physically and mentally fit to participate, and prosecutors say accommodations are in place for his comfort.
- Duterte faces three crimes-against-humanity counts tied to at least 76 killings from 2013–2018, covering 19 in Davao, 14 ‘High Value Target’ cases, and 43 during clearance operations.
- He denies the allegations and is appealing the court’s jurisdiction, while victims’ families prepare evidence, including exhumations, in hopes the case advances.